NORWICH — The Chenango County Area Agency on Aging, the distributor of seasonal Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons for eligible seniors, recently ran out of the market booklets due to state funding cuts.

The loss of 200 coupon booklets, totaling $5,000 forced the cancellation of several scheduled distribution sites.

Aaron Weeks, director of aging services, shared the list of cancelled sites and apologized for the inconvenience.

The cancelled distribution sites are:

August 13 at Senior Day at the fair.

August 19 at the Village Greene Apartments.

August 19 at the Greene Senior Center.

“This is a situation that is out of our control,” Weeks said. “We can only distribute the number of booklets we receive and don’t have access to more until next year.”

He explained the department received only 460 booklets due to SNAP and other funding cuts.

“We are very sorry for this issue and hope to get more next year,” Weeks added.

He noted that those who received booklets should use them, warning that unused coupons could negatively impact future funding allocations.

According to the Chenango County Bulletin Board, concerned citizens have urged residents to contact their town supervisors to request surplus funding to cover the shortfall.

However, questions remain regarding whether the Area Agency on Aging is permitted to accept local funds alongside state allocations.

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons are distributed annually to Chenango County residents age 60 and older who meet income guidelines.

According to the agency, the program promotes local farms by expanding sales at farmers' markets and farm stands, and fosters healthy communities through the consumption of locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables.

For more information on program guidelines, or with additional questions or concerns, contact Aaron Weeks at 607-337-1770 or email Aweeks@chenangocountyny.gov.